Blue Jays skipper details fallback strategy if Bo Bichette signs elsewhere

Toronto Blue Jays manager John Schneider believes that replacing Bo Bichette would require more than simply adding another shortstop. Schneider claims the Blue Jays will have to compensate for offensive output, positional flexibility and clubhouse presence.

Free agent Bo Bichette is a two-time All-Star and has been among the Blue Jays' core players in recent years. Meanwhile, Schneider has been managing the Jays since 2022. He shared his contingency plan if Bichette doesn't resign during an interview with Sportsnet's Hazel Mae on Tuesday.

"It's a variety of ways to do it," Schneider said (Timestamps: 6:16). "The one that jumps out to me is you need to fill his offensive production. I mean, this guy led our team in RBI's and missed the last month of the season. Bo is an elite hitter, you know."

Schneider said Bichette averaged more than .300 on fastballs, change-ups, and breaking balls in 2025 and was the only hitter to do that in the big leagues. He also said that Bichette has a knack for getting things done.

"And then, you know, the defensive positioning, whether it's short or second," he added. "I think he's comfortable at either one of those places. And then kind of just the person that's leaving the team, you know what I mean? He's been a he's been a staple in our clubhouse. A fiery guy at times. An emotional guy at times."

Schneider pointed out that Chris Bassit, Max Scherzer, Kevin Gaussman and George Springer arrived on the Blue Jays at different times. Meanwhile, Bichette has been the staple for the team for a long time.

MLB insider sees scenario of Blue Jays not re-signing Bo Bichette

MLB insider J.P. Morosi believes that there is a legitimate chance that the Blue Jays could sign Kyle Tucker, the most coveted free agent this offseason. The Blue Jays have signed free agent Dylan Cease and have also brought back Shane Bieber, which Morosi believes is a sign that they are committed to winning.

However, the insider claims the potential arrival of Tucker means Bo Bichette won't return. He shared his theory on an episode of MLB Network's "Hot Stove."

"Kyle Tucker is a good fit for this lineup, if they do not bring Bo Bichette back," Morosi said. "You could see a scenario where (Addison) Barger plays third, (Ernie) Clement plays second, (Andres) Gimenez plays short, (Anthony) Santander in left, George Springer in right and this becomes your club.

"The Jays already have great depth of outfielders, but that's actually part of the reason why they might be able to sign Tucker on terms that they view as being favorable to them," he added.

Tucker has already visited the Blue Jays' Spring training facility in Tampa. Blue Jays manager John Schneider said that the outfielder appeared impressed by the facility.